1840 Braided Hair Half Cent. First Restrike. B-2. Rarity-7+. Small Berries (Reverse of 1856). Proof-65 BN (PCGS). CAC.

82.2 grains. An exceptional example of this rare First Restrike that ranks among the finest known. Warm pinkish hues glow from the overall brick-red complexion, while flashes of lighter green and gold are noted in areas. A couple areas of dark patina at star 10 serve as convenient pedigree markers, allowing us to trace this coin back to our (Stack's) 1989 sale of the James A. Stack, Sr. Collection. Over three decades later, it still remains one of the most desirable examples of this rare Proof-only half cent issue. No half cents were struck for circulation from 1836 until part way through 1849, though Proofs were struck in 1836. Beginning in 1840 and continuing through 1848, however, the Philadelphia Mint did strike Proof half cents. Today's numismatists recognize original and two restrike formats, with the restrikes accomplished at a later time than the dates appearing on the coins. While all Proof half cents are very rare, the 1840 B-2 First Restrike is particularly elusive with only five or six survivors known. This specimen is a true delicacy for the early copper specialist.

PCGS# 1251. NGC ID: 26Z5.

PCGS Population (First and Second Restrike combined): 5; 4 finer in this category (Proof-66+ BN finest). CAC Population: 4; 4.

Ex our (Stack's) sale of the James A. Stack, Sr. Collection, November 1989, lot 72; Jon Hanson; Donald G. Partrick; Heritage's sale of the Donald G. Partrick Collection, April 2021 CSNS Signature Auction, lot 3733.